23. PROSPECT

~ Violet ~ Violet stood in silence for the longest time as Jesse’s question hung in the air. He was looking at her expectantly and Violet was caught off guard. If Jesse had asked this question to her weeks ago, she’d say yes in a heartbeat. But after everything that happened and after Damon’s second proposal, Violet didn’t know what to think.  “Oh, I… I’d love to, but I think I have to work tomorrow night,” Violet stammered an excuse.  Work wasn’t honestly that important and if she’d talk to Dylan, he would surely give her a night out. But Violet wasn’t sure if she should jump into anything with anyone this time around. She was still trying to recover from her experience at Damon’s estate while maintaining some sense of normalcy in her life. The last thing she needed was more complications.  “Aw, that’s too bad,” Jesse let out a sad smile. He was clearly disappointed, but he was hiding it well. “Well, maybe some other time?” “Yeah,” Violet nodded her head. “Another time would be great—